Last reviewed by Dr. Leena Joshi, MD, July 2026
End-stage renal disease occurs when the kidneys lose most of their ability to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. Dr. Leena Joshi helps patients in Burlingame and San Mateo County navigate treatment options, including guidance on choosing dialysis center Burlingame facilities that best meet individual medical needs. Dr. Joshi provides comprehensive care coordination, treatment planning, and ongoing monitoring to support quality of life throughout dialysis therapy.
What is end-stage renal disease?
End-stage renal disease, also called kidney failure, means the kidneys are working at less than 15 percent of their normal capacity. At this stage, the kidneys can no longer remove enough waste products and extra water from the body to maintain health. Without treatment, waste and fluid build up in the blood to dangerous levels. This condition develops over months or years, usually as the final stage of chronic kidney disease. The most common causes include diabetes and high blood pressure. When kidneys fail, patients need either dialysis or a kidney transplant to stay alive. Dialysis is a medical treatment that does the filtering work the kidneys can no longer perform. Dr. Joshi works with patients throughout San Mateo County to understand their options and create individualized treatment plans that fit their lifestyle and medical needs.
Signs and symptoms
- Severe fatigue and weakness that interferes with daily activities
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or face from fluid retention
- Shortness of breath due to fluid buildup in the lungs
- Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
- Changes in urination patterns, including decreased urine output
- Confusion, difficulty concentrating, or mental fog
- Persistent itching and dry skin
How Dr. Joshi manages end-stage renal disease
Dr. Joshi provides comprehensive nephrology care for patients with end-stage renal disease in Burlingame, Daly City, and throughout San Mateo County. When choosing dialysis center Burlingame options, Dr. Joshi evaluates each facility’s quality metrics, staff credentials, infection control practices, and patient satisfaction scores. Dr. Joshi helps patients understand the differences between hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis, discussing which option may work best based on medical history, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Dr. Joshi coordinates with dialysis centers to ensure seamless care transitions and monitors lab results, medication adjustments, and nutritional status throughout treatment. For patients considering kidney transplantation, Dr. Joshi provides referrals and pre-transplant evaluations. Dr. Joshi also addresses complications that may arise, including anemia, bone disease, and cardiovascular concerns. Regular follow-up appointments allow Dr. Joshi to adjust treatment plans as needs change and to support patients in maintaining the best possible quality of life while managing this serious condition.
When to see a nephrologist for end-stage renal disease
- Your primary care doctor has diagnosed stage 4 or 5 chronic kidney disease
- Lab tests show your kidney function is declining rapidly
- You need guidance on dialysis options and choosing a treatment center
- You are currently on dialysis and experiencing complications or side effects
- You want to explore kidney transplant eligibility
- You need coordinated care between your dialysis center and nephrologist
Frequently asked questions
What should I look for when choosing dialysis center Burlingame facilities?
Dr. Joshi recommends evaluating infection rates, staff-to-patient ratios, convenience of location and scheduling, cleanliness, and patient reviews. Your nephrologist can help compare quality measures between centers to find the best fit for your medical needs and lifestyle.
How often will I need dialysis treatments?
Most hemodialysis patients require treatment three times per week, with each session lasting three to four hours. Peritoneal dialysis is typically performed daily at home. Dr. Joshi will discuss which schedule may work best based on your specific situation and treatment type.
Can I travel while on dialysis?
Yes, dialysis patients can travel with advance planning. Dr. Joshi can help arrange guest dialysis at centers in your destination. Peritoneal dialysis may offer more flexibility for travel. Planning several weeks ahead is important to coordinate care at another facility.
Will I need to follow a special diet on dialysis?
Dialysis patients typically need to limit sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and fluids. Dr. Joshi works with renal dietitians to create individualized nutrition plans. Dietary needs may vary based on your type of dialysis, lab results, and other health conditions.
How long can someone live on dialysis?
Survival varies widely based on age, overall health, and adherence to treatment. Many patients live for years on dialysis with good quality of life. Dr. Joshi focuses on optimizing each patient’s health outcomes through careful monitoring and treatment adjustments.
Does insurance cover dialysis treatment?
Medicare covers dialysis for most patients with end-stage renal disease, regardless of age. Private insurance and Medi-Cal may also provide coverage. Dr. Joshi’s office can help patients understand their coverage options and connect with financial counselors at dialysis centers.
Dr. Leena Joshi, MD serves patients with end-stage renal disease throughout San Mateo County from two convenient locations: 1750 El Camino Real, Suite 301, Burlingame, and 1800 Sullivan Avenue, Suite 507, Daly City. For expert guidance on managing kidney failure and choosing dialysis center Burlingame options that meet your needs, call (650) 355-5551 to schedule a consultation.
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your physician about your specific situation.
Medically reviewed by Leena Joshi, MD.